Steve Sidwell is counting off the days until his contract expires before signing for Chelsea a move to Stamford Bridge while Manchester United have shifted their attention to Ajax striker Klaas Jun Huntelaar after giving up their bid to lure Dimitar Berbatov away from Tottenham.

Seville striker Kepo Blanco, who is on loan at West Ham, could be heading to Manchester City while Andy Todd is wanted by Wigan and Rangers after being told he can leave Blackburn.

Watford want Hammers striker Marlon Harewood to help them return to the Premiership at the first attempt and Everton are keen on signing Cardiff City hotshot Michael Chopra.

Wolves boss Mick McCarthy wants to take Newcastle defender Peter Ramage on a season-long loan next term and Blackburn have taken Gunnar Nielsen, a 20-year-old goalkeeper from the Faroe Islands, on trial.

Derby boss Billy Davies, meanwhile, has been told he will not have to sell Giles Barnes if they do not get promoted.

Rumour of the day: Aston Villa are rivalling Portsmouth in the race to sign Sylvain Distin, who has refused to sign a new contract at Manchester City.

No chance: Birmingham striker Mikael Forssell will not be joining Hanover after failing a medical.